Track officials said they will continue to comply with advice and guidance from public health agencies and the governor. Track officials also expressed a concern that given the number of people on the backstretch (500-1000), complying with social distancing recommendations becomes an issue. Factors in the decision to stay closed include the fact that Polk County, in which the racetrack and casino reside, is among the top 10 in the country for the spread of the disease and that 'convenient and reliable' testing for the virus remains unavailable. 16 and just last week laid off 1,130 of its employees as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak.
Prairie Meadows shut down operations Mar. “This is a position in which we have been steadfast since deciding to close our full operation before any other casino in the state.”
“At Prairie Meadows, we care deeply about the health and well-being of our family of employees, our guests, the horsemen, and our community,” said Prairie Meadows President & CEO Gary Palmer. Despite a proclamation issued Thursday by Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds allowing the state's horse and dog tracks to re-open to spectator-free racing, officials at Prairie Meadows in Altoona have elected to remain closed, declaring that it is still unsafe to conduct live racing.
